United States striker Alex Morgan is one of the most influential woman soccer players of all time. The “Cali Girl” has announced that she’s calling it a career at the age of 35. The announcement came after she found out she was pregnant for the second time.
The two-time World Cup winner was one of the pioneers of women’s soccer, not only in the United States but around the world. Alex Morgan scored 123 goals for the USWNT, placing her fifth on the all-time scoring list.
How do you summarize a career like hers in a list of the best moments? We know it’s impossible, but here are a few of the accomplishments that we soccer fans will remember forever and have inspired a new generation of women’s soccer fans:
Winning the NWSL Golden Boot (2022)
In 2022, Alex Morgan achieved one of her most impressive club feats by winning the NWSL Golden Boot. She scored 15 goals in 17 games for San Diego Wave FC, leading her team to the playoffs in their inaugural season.
This standout performance was a testament to her enduring talent and dominance, even in the later stages of her career. It also silenced any critics who doubted her ability to excel at the club level, reinforcing her status as one of the greatest players in the sport.
First World Cup Goal (2011)
Morgan’s first World Cup goal came during the 2011 tournament, where she scored in the semifinals against France and again in the final against Japan. Although the USWNT ultimately lost to Japan in a penalty shootout, these goals marked Morgan’s arrival as a critical player on the international stage.
This tournament was the beginning of her rise to global stardom, setting the tone for her future successes with the national team.
Five-Goal Performance Against Thailand (2019)
At the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup, Morgan delivered a historic performance by scoring five goals in a 13-0 victory over Thailand. This feat tied the record for the most goals scored by a single player in a World Cup match.
Her extraordinary display of skill and scoring ability not only showcased her talent but also set the tone for the USWNT’s dominant campaign, which culminated in winning their fourth World Cup.
Tea-Sipping Celebration at the 2019 World Cup
Morgan made headlines around the world during the 2019 World Cup with her iconic “tea-sipping” celebration after scoring the game-winning goal against England in the semifinals. The celebration, which took place on her 30th birthday, was both praised and critiqued, highlighting her flair and confidence under pressure.
This moment symbolized Morgan’s status as a leader and star on the global stage, helping the USWNT secure their second consecutive World Cup title.
Olympic Semifinal Heroics (2012)
The pinnacle of Morgan’s career came in the 2012 London Olympics, where she scored one of the most memorable goals in women’s soccer history. In the semifinal match against Canada, tied 3-3 in extra time, Morgan scored a dramatic header in the 123rd minute to secure a spot in the final.
This last-minute goal not only led the USWNT to a gold medal but also solidified Morgan’s reputation as a clutch performer in high-pressure situations, making it the defining moment of her career.
From her early days as a rising star to becoming a global soccer icon, Alex Morgan has had one of the greatest soccer careers of all time. Her contributions on the field have left an indelible legacy and inspired a new generation of women’s soccer fans.